• The article discusses the various impacts of climate change on human health, such as air pollution, water-borne diseases and extreme weather events.
• It highlights how these changes have resulted in an increase in the number of people suffering from allergy-related conditions, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues and mental health problems.
• It also looks at how climate change has impacted vulnerable populations globally, such as pregnant women and children in developing countries.
Overview
This article examines the effects of climate change on human health. It outlines how increased air pollution, water-borne illnesses and extreme weather events can detrimentally impact physical and mental wellbeing. Furthermore it draws attention to how vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by climate change related risks.
Air Pollution
Climate change has caused an increase in air pollution levels due to more frequent wildfires, dust storms and a rise in emissions from transportation sources. This can lead to a worsening of respiratory illnesses like asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder). Allergy-related conditions are also on the rise due to higher levels of pollen production associated with global warming.
Water-Borne Diseases
Rising temperatures can cause a proliferation of bacteria in freshwater sources which increases the risk of water contamination by pathogens like E-coli or salmonella. Such contaminated water can result in diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal issues if consumed, particularly among those with weakened immune systems such as young children or pregnant women living in developing countries where access to clean drinking water may be limited.
Extreme Weather Events
The intensification of severe weather events brought about by climate change adds further stressors for humans who may experience displacement or destruction of their homes due to floods, droughts or typhoons – all factors that can take a toll on mental health. In addition to this, physical injuries sustained during natural disasters can contribute to long term disability or even death if medical help is not readily available.
Vulnerable Populations
The most vulnerable members of society tend to suffer disproportionately from the impacts of climate change related risks – this particularly applies to those living in low income countries where access to healthcare is often inadequate compared with more affluent nations. Pregnant women and young children are especially susceptible given their fragile state – heat waves for example are linked with increased rates of premature births while diarrhoea caused by contaminated drinking water is one of the leading causes